The Power of Public Protest: The Resignation of Governor Ricky Rosselló in Puerto Rico

During the summer of 2019, the Puerto Rican people took to the streets to protest, to demand the resignation of then-governor Ricardo Rosello. These protests were peaceful and demonstrated the strength of a united people.

There is a summer in your life that you never forget, maybe you got your first summer love or that dream vacation, but for us in Puerto Rico, summer 2019 was our special one. It was the summer that the citizens were united in one voice to shout “Ricky, Resign”. We were tired of all the humiliation that the government in Puerto Rico was doing to us after Huracán María, especially the former governor Ricardo “Ricky” Roselló, who in a private chat disrespected us with his team. The leak of that chat and the messages revealed on it, sparked massive protests across the Island, with the people demanding his resignation. These messages contained derogatory language, including sexist and homophobic comments and mocking remarks about Hurricane Maria victims. The leaked texts deeply offended us, the Puerto Rican people, and eroded our trust in the government. Our reaction to the leaked texts was swift and powerful, when Boricuas from all walks of life, including celebrities, artists, and activists, joined the protests. Social media played a crucial role in organizing and spreading the word, making it a true grassroots movement. The protests were characterized by a sea of Puerto Rican flags, music, and passionate "Ricky Renuncia" (Ricky Resign) chants. Our demands were clear: we wanted accountability, transparency, and an end to corruption in our government. The protests were not just about the offensive texts; they were about addressing systemic issues that had plagued the island for years. The unity and determination of the protesters were evident in their sheer numbers and unwavering commitment.  Under immense public pressure and days of protest, Rosselló announced his resignation as governor on July 24, 2019. This was a historic moment for our Country, as it marked a significant victory for us, and demonstrated the power of peaceful protest and public mobilization. Rosselló became the first governor in the history of Puerto Rico to resign during his term, but the protests did not end with Rosselló's resignation. They left a lasting impact on Puerto Rico's society and politics. They sparked a broader conversation about the need for political reform, social justice, and good governance. The legacy of these protests continued to influence the island's politics and the mindset of its people. The protests in Puerto Rico in 2019 were a testament to the power of people united in their demand for change. The leaked text messages may have been the trigger, but the underlying issues ran deep. The emerging movement demonstrated Puerto Ricans' strength when they came together to hold their leaders accountable. The resignation of Ricky Rosselló was a turning point in Puerto Rico’s history, and it serves as a reminder that the voice of the people can shape the course of a nation. These protests will be remembered as a shining example of the potential for positive change through collective action and these are their faces.